The Importance of Emergency Dentists
An emergency dentist is a dental provider who specializes in treating issues that require immediate attention. Emergency dentists are important because they provide timely, quality care in order to prevent further damage and other complications. They are able to identify issues quickly, such as infection or decay that may require more intensive treatments if not handled right away. Emergency dentists provide same-day care for a wide range of dental problems. Here are common reasons people see an emergency dentist, and what can happen if they go untreated.
Common Dental Emergencies Include:
Toothaches
Left untreated, a toothache can lead to more serious dental issues. If the underlying problem is not addressed and treated, it may lead to an abscessed tooth. An abscess is a pocket of infection that forms in the gums or around the roots of teeth. It can occur when bacteria enter through an untreated cavity or chips and cracks in the teeth. This can cause extreme pain and swelling, as well as fever and other complications if left unchecked.
In addition, it may require a root canal procedure to repair or remove the affected tooth. Other potential consequences of not treating a toothache include gum disease, which can be accompanied by bad breath, bleeding gums, loosening teeth, and pain while eating.
Finally, leaving a persistent toothache untreated can lead to an infection of the jawbone, which could be serious and require antibiotics.
Broken or Cracked Teeth
Broken or cracked teeth left untreated can result in several oral health issues. First, the damaged tooth may become infected due to bacteria entering through cracks and crevices. This can lead to pain, swelling, and abscesses. Secondly, if the fracture is deep enough, it can compromise the strength of the tooth and put it at risk of breaking further. This can lead to costly repairs or even extraction. In addition, leaving a broken or cracked tooth untreated can have serious implications for your overall oral health since decay-causing bacteria may now have easy access to other parts of your mouth that were previously protected by healthy enamel. Without proper treatment and care these problems will only worsen over time.
Abscesses
If left untreated, abscesses can cause a wide range of serious complications. The infection can spread to other parts of the body, causing widespread inflammation and potentially life-threatening conditions such as septicemia (bacteria in the bloodstream). It can also cause facial deformity if the infection spreads to bones or tissues in the face. In addition, an untreated abscess can lead to meningitis or brain abscess, which is a very dangerous condition that requires immediate medical attention. Finally, there is a risk of permanent tooth loss if the abscess is not treated promptly.
Facial Injuries Involving the Mouth Area
Untreated facial injuries caused by accidents that involve the mouth can have devastating effects on a person’s health. In some cases, these injuries can lead to permanent damage to the face and jaw. Additionally, if left untreated, facial trauma can cause significant pain, infection, and even long-term complications.
A fractured jawbone or teeth knocked out of their sockets may result in nerve damage or improper healing. This can make it difficult for a person to eat and speak properly. If left untreated, these conditions could even require multiple surgeries over time or other forms of medical care such as physical therapy sessions.
Infection is another potential consequence of an untreated facial injury caused by an accident that involves the mouth. If a person’s gums are exposed to bacteria, it can cause infection not only in their mouth but throughout their body as well. This can lead to further complications such as fever, fatigue, and even death if left untreated.
Know a Provider Before you NEED a Provider
An emergency dentist, like 512 Smiles, can help determine the extent of the injury and provide necessary treatment in order to avoid any long-term damage or health problems. By seeking proper treatment for these types of injuries early on, people can prevent serious health issues from arising down the line. Learn about emergency dentists in your area so you know where to go if the need arises.